Michelin returns to City Beautiful magazine in 2025 with three new stars. Two of them were at Solekala, one of the Orlando Sentinel’s new restaurants of the year at the time. The other one we went to was OS’s best new restaurant, Ômo by Jônt.
Of course, it’s great to have a fine dining restaurant of choice in a city where talent is exploding. And while luxury competition continues to intensify, patrons here don’t seem to be as concerned as others, as they’re eating out far less frequently than last year, according to YouGov’s year-end survey.
A significant 37% of American diners said their restaurant visits have decreased. Just 8% said they will be eating out more than they did in 2024.
Inflation and rising costs are impacting restaurants as well as customers, putting a damper on eating out. That means recognition at places like the 2026 Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards can be very helpful.
Name your favorite local restaurant here: OrlandoSentinel.com/FoodieAwards
Last year was an interesting one for the Orlando Sentinel’s annual Game of Foodies, with Reader’s Choice winners reflecting critics’ picks more than ever. Let’s explore and love new and old favorites and see if this trend continues.
With local expertise, you can nominate your favorites in 50 categories every day.
Your nod means everything to those working hard on the line, behind the bar and in front. And in an increasingly delicate business environment, a win can have a big impact on a restaurant’s bottom line.
Your recommendation also means a lot to Orlando locals and visitors who rely on your information when dining out. Let’s continue to show them that food in Orlando means so much more than chain restaurants and theme parks. Give them a list they can live by all year long.
overview
The nomination process will be open until February 11th at 11:59pm. The top three restaurants in each category, or those with the most nominations, will then advance to the voting round from February 12th to 25th.
Winners will be announced on March 6th online and in the Orlando Sentinel’s calendar section.
Nominate your favorite once a day at OrlandoSentinel.com/FoodieAwards for the best chance to finish in the top three in all 50 categories.
Restaurant: Tell your followers.
Gourmet: Tell your friends.
Most votes = advance to next round and guaranteed top 3!
Thank you for joining us to make the 2026 roster the most voted ever and for helping us keep our city delicious.
Want to lend a hand? Find me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram @amydroo or the OSFoodie Instagram account @orlando.foodie. Email: amthompson@orlandosentinel.com. For even more foodie fun, join our Let’s Eat, Orlando Facebook group.
